Jasmine Crockett, James Talarico don’t have to tear Texas Democrats apart | Opinion

Best choice

Is U.S. Rep. Jasmine Crockett’s decision to challenge state Rep. James Talarico in the Senate primary another example of Texas Democrats shooting themselves in the foot? It doesn’t have to be.

Crockett’s bid means Talarico will have to spend money in the primary that he could have used to fight the Republican nominee in the general election.

While Crockett’s feistiness will rally her progressive base, it might also motivate Republicans to turn out against her.

But what if, instead of fighting, the two Democratic candidates rewrite the playbook by using the primary to incentivize a wide range of voters? Talarico speaks to disillusioned Christian Republicans and mainstream Democrats. Crockett brings an excitement that inspires disengaged activists. After listening to the people, the one with the most momentum should become the candidate.

- Barbara Chiarello, Austin

Deserve it

My father and my husband entered the United States legally. Thousands seek to do so, but they are stymied for years by bureaucratic obstacles. These are folks who respect the rule of law, have sponsors and promises of work and will not be burdens on social services. Many speak excellent English.

One friend who entered the U.S. in the early 2010s through the lottery system found high-paying technology employment, has bought and renovated a house, put her daughter through college, has a side gig as a notary public and plays piano for the church choir. She deserves citizenship.

Thomas Friedman of The New York Times suggests stapling a green card to the diploma of every foreign graduate to keep brainpower in the U.S. Politicians: Use some common sense.

- Patricia Biczynski, Dallas

Be the peace

I hope the world condemns the killings during a Hanukkah celebration at Bondi Beach in Sydney, Australia.

This was an expression of hate, targeting families gathered for a Jewish holiday that symbolizes light triumphing over darkness, purpose over adversity and peace enduring over violence.

I will not be silent, as silence does not challenge violence and hate. Each of us must let the world know that acts of violence are unacceptable. Each of us can encourage everyone to promote nonviolent conflict resolution and peace. We must stand together, united for peace, raising our voices.

Be the peace we want to see in the world. In recognition of Hanukkah, be the light that eliminates the darkness.

- Leonard Ellis, Arlington

Money talks

U.S. Rep. Ilhan Omar of Minnesota was broadly criticized for once contending that American policy regarding Israel-Palestine was “all about the Benjamins.” Yet Dallas Mavericks majority owner and Las Vegas casino billionaire Miriam Adelson recently told President Donald Trump she would donate $250 million to pro-Trump political committees were he to attempt an unconstitutional campaign for reelection in 2028. Trump and Adelson framed it as a joke, but talk about chutzpah! Adelson already gave $106 million to back Trump’s candidacy in 2024.

Money talks, but big money screams in our electoral system — which explains why average Americans have little say-so compared with the well-to-do.

- George W. Aldridge, Arlington